Page:Songs and Sonnets (1906).djvu/72

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66

CONQUEST.

I trim to the gale, I carry my banner unfurled,
I steer to a chart unseen and unknown of the world.

I challenge the fates, I laugh in the face of defeat,
I look from afar and know not the sign of retreat.

The chosen went forth, I stood with them not on the roll,
I stood in my place uncalled and was valiant of soul.

Denial has been my armor well-tempered and bright,
From pain I have woven banners both crimson and white.

From out of the dark I forged me a trumpet and blew,
From out of the dark came ringing a voice that I knew.